Although Niagara College campuses are closed, the College still opened doors for its students, metaphorically speaking, through its International Student Awards.
Each term, NC recognizes the positive impact of international students who demonstrate academic excellence and contribute to the College community through its International Student Awards. The scholarships that are handed out as part of the awards, aim to honour the best and brightest students from around the world who have achieved remarkable academic success.
Caroline Gullich Cruz, who is originally from Brazil, is pictured with her award for achieving the highest final grade of 95.68% among international students from the School of Business Management’s Business Accounting program.
“Niagara College International is thrilled to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these outstanding students,” said acting director of International, Dorita Pentesco. “Their success is a true reflection of their dedication and hard work and the quality of the educational experience at Niagara College. While we can’t be together on campus right now, we congratulate our scholarship recipients for this milestone accomplishment.”
Although an International Student Award ceremony was not hosted this past term, recipients were just as elated to be awarded their scholarships from the comforts of their homes. In total, 30 awards and more than $25,000 in scholarships were given through the International Student Awards thanks to the generous contributions of NC’s donors.
“As an international student, every single dollar counts – especially in these times of instability,” said Caroline Gullich Cruz, who is originally from Brazil and achieved the highest final grade – 95.68% – among international students from the School of Business Management’s Business Accounting program. “This award proved to me that dreaming, planning, and doing are worthwhile. I am super proud of myself, and I am sure that my family and friends are too.”
Along with Cruz, Recreation Therapy student, Somluk Sukchuenrutai, was one of 12 students to receive an academic award recognizing the highest average from each school of study.
Pictured is NC Recreation Therapy student, Somluk Sukchuenrutai, who is originally from Thailand and won the highest final grade among international students from the School of Community Studies’ Recreation Therapy (Fast-Track delivery) program.
“Winning an award is a meaningful outcome for my family and me and is a great result of my efforts while studying abroad,” shared Sukchuenrutai, who is originally from Thailand and won the highest final grade among international students from the School of Community Studies’ Recreation Therapy (Fast-Track delivery) program. Sukchuenrutai is also a graduate of NC’s English for Academic Preparation program and Hospitality and Tourism Management program. “It is not easy to overcome challenges and focus on academic courses, however, this award is a significant achievement for me.”
In addition to recognizing the top grades from each school of study, guard.me International Insurance, NC’s provider of international student insurance, awarded the Keith Segal – guard.me scholarship to 15 international students with the top grades.
Renewable Energies Technician student Nico San Pedro, who is originally from the Philippines, was one of the recipients this term.
“This award confirms my desire to expand my knowledge in the field of renewable energies,” explained San Pedro. “Niagara College has helped me excel in my academics with its applied learning approach and broad student services.
“I dedicate this award to the people in my life who have shared their wisdom and encouragement and who have helped me succeed in my studies.”
San Pedro also expressed his gratitude to Keith Segal and the Segal family for their generous donations in sponsoring the scholarship: “Your kindness has radiated to all the people who have supported me, who are as grateful and happy as I am in receiving this award.”
